Cuckoo Clocks

A brief history of Cuckoo Clocks
The first cuckoo clocks were made around 1800 in a region of Germany called the Black Forest by a man named Franz Anton Ketterer. Soon after the people of the Black Forest region began to carve and make more cuckoo clocks. The clocks were made all winter long, and then sold across Europe by peddlers during the summer months. Cuckoo clocks were considered works of art and have been collected ever since. Today the wonderful craftsmanship of the cuckoo clock can be enjoyed worldwide. 

What is a Cuckoo Clock?
A cuckoo clock is a wall or shelf clock that announces time intervals with the sound and sometimes emergence of a cuckoo bird or other figurines. 

How do Cuckoo Clocks work?
Cuckoo clocks are operated by three weights and a pendulum. The first weight and the pendulum provide the clocks timekeeping function, the second weight controls the cuckoo and movements, and the third weight controls the music. The weights hang under the clock by chains and slowly drop as the clock operates. The weights need to be periodically repositioned. 

What is the difference between Traditional and Chalet Cuckoo Clocks?
Chalet cuckoo clocks are always cased in a mountain cabin or 'chalet' whereas traditional cuckoo clocks are cased in a variety of other styles and designs.

 

What is the difference between a 1-day and an 8-day Cuckoo Clock?
With a 1-day cuckoo clock you have to pull the weights to wind it every 24 hours and with an 8-day cuckoo clock you do this every eighth day.

Can Cuckoo Clocks be turned off at night? 
Yes, most clocks have a night shut-off lever located under the weights, which allows you to disable the sounds and movements at anytime.